Zoya Phan, Burma Campaign UK’s Campaigns Manager, an ethnic Karen and long-time political activist, briefly met with King Charles III on 1 February, reports Mizzima. The exchange took place at a reception at Buckingham Palace to celebrate the contribution of East and Southeast Asian communities to the United Kingdom.
Charles III was quick to recognize Zoya as Karen from her ethnic dress. “The King seems to have a keen interest in Burma,” Zoya told Mizzima. “At one point he wants to visit Burma if there are genuine democratic reforms.” Zoya thanked the King for his support for Burma and told him about ongoing junta attacks targeting civilians and how people in Burma are desperate for help.
“As Karen we don’t want to be ruled by the British or the Burman. We want autonomy and control over our own lives, land, and natural resources.”